Gear guide

Hillberg Anjan 3

Montbell Highland: Who doesn't want a warm, packable down sweater at an affordable price? The hoodless jacket works well as a cold-weather midlayer in the mountains, and by itself the Highland is cozy as a nighttime camp coat when temps are close to freezing. Despite the price, the jacket has not been stripped of features: You get two zippered hand pockets, two interior pockets, elasticized wrist closures and a burly-toothed main zip that never snags. Packs to 8 x 3 inches in its included sack. Price: $129. Info: www.montbell.us. - Backpacker.com

Scarpa Teach Ascent: Snow has fallen on Colorado's mountains, but it's not too late to get up into the highcountry for some late-season hiking. This is the ultimate boot for the long approaches and Class 3+ scrambles you see on some of Colorado's fourteeners. Unlike most approach shoes, the Tech Ascent has a substantial midsole that's stiff enough to carry multiday loads with no comfort sacrifice. The Vibram sole is sticky enough to climb easy Class 5, too. And for alpine weather, the Gore-Tex membrane never leaked in testing, so you should stay dry if you encouter rain or snow. Price: $219. Info: www.scarpa.com. - Backpacker.com

Hillberg Anjan 3: Light, compact and brawny enough for alpine storms, the Anjan is a killer choice for weight-conscious trios (or space-greedy duos) who don't flee tough conditions. The non-freestanding tunnel tent can withstand snow thanks to a low, aerodynamic shape and four guyout points (each anchored at two points on the fly). The 14-square-foot vestibule holds plenty of gear while still allowing room for scooting in and out. The price is steep (partly due to Hilleberg's ultradurable, ultralight Kerlon fabric), and venting is limited if weather prevents you from pitching it with the vestibule doors rolled back. Price: $598. Info: www.hilleberg.com. - Backpacker.

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Gear guide

Montbell Highland: Who doesn't want a warm, packable down sweater at an affordable price? The hoodless jacket works well as a cold-weather midlayer in the mountains, and by itself the Highland is